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Sensational Southern France 2018 Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Lyon (France)
Fly from a choice of UK regional airports to Lyon. You will be met at the airport by a representative and transferred to your ship. In the evening you will enjoy a welcome reception and dinner onboard. There is the option to travel by Eurostar - please contact us for pricing. (D)
Day 2 - Lyon
Positioned at the conference of the Rhone and Saone rivers, Lyon is France's second largest city. Your tour of Lyon will begin with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere, a magnificent hilltop church which offers spectacular aerial views of the city below. Later, a walk through the cobbled streets of the old town will take you past the Roman amphitheatre. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Chalon-sur-Saone - Beaune
Chalon-sur-Saone is at the centre of Burgundy's wine region and it is from here that you will travel by road to the charming village of Beaune. You will be invited to visit the Hospices de Beaune: a tremendous example of 15th-century architecture which has become one of the symbols of Burgundy. In the afternoon you can enjoy lunch on board as your ship cruises toward Macon, or you can join a bike ride from Tournus to Macon as your ship is sailing. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Macon
Enjoy breakfast as you sail along the picturesque Soane river to Macon - the gateway to the Beaujolais vineyards. Here you can see the half-timbered house and Souflot Chapel as you walk the Heritage Trail from Old Saint Vincent and perhaps sample some local wines at one of the many wine tasting displays. Afterwards, you may explore Macon at your leisure. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Tournon
Today, you can enjoy a walking tour of Tournon with your local guide. Nestled in a valley near the slopes of France's third largest mountain range, Tournon is home to a 16th-century castle and numerous Roman ruins. A bicycle tour to Glun is also available today, or a guided hike through the vineyards. EmeraldPLUS: Onboard regional wine tasting during the evening. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Avignon
One of France's most popular destinations, this fortified town was once the residence of the Popes and played a central role in the French Revolution. Embark on a guided tour through the historic centre and then spend the rest of the day at leisure and perhaps browse some of the area's boutiques. There will be a yoga/Pilates lesson on board. EmeraldPLUS: Tonight there will be a special Provencal dinner on board ship, created by a local chef to ensure you are experiencing genuine local cuisine. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Avignon - Arles
Sail to Arles, the capital of Provence for a guided walking tour which will showcase some of the city's highlights, including the 2,000 year old Roman Ampitheatre. The rest of the day is yours to spend as your wish. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Arles - UK
Disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.
Key: B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner
Sensational Southern France 2019 Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Lyon (France)
Fly from a choice of UK regional airports to Lyon. You will be met at the airport by a representative and transferred to your ship. In the evening you will enjoy a welcome reception and dinner onboard. There is the option to travel by Eurostar - please contact us for pricing. (D)
Day 2 - Chalon-sur-Saone
Chalon-sur-Saone is located in the heart of Burgundy's wine region. Travel to picturesque Beaune for a visit to the Hospices de Beaune, a stunning example of 15th-century architecture. Admire the multicoloured roofs on this former hospital. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Lyon
The former Roman capital of Lyon is considered the gastronomic centre of France. Enjoy a guided tour, which starts with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourviere before continuing on to the Roman ampitheatre and into the old town. Alternatively, opt for the guided bike tour. An optional visit to Perouges is available. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Tournon
Enjoy a walking tour of Tournon overlooked by a 16th-century castle and nestled in a valley near the slopes of le Massif Central. There are two EmeraldActive excursions - a guided bike tour to Glun and a guided hike through vineyards. Enjoy a special wine tasting on board. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Viviers
Viviers is home to one of the oldest cathedrals in France. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the magnificent architecture that this town has to offer. There is a cheese and olive tasting on board. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Avignon
Avignon has a rich history and is home to the Papal Palace. Enjoy a guided walk through the historic centre which overlooks the famous Pont d'Avignon. For those feeling active, there is a yoga class on board and guided hike around Avignon. There is a special Provencal dinner on board, hosted by chef Fabien Morreale. In addition, there is an optional tour to Pont du Gard. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Arles
Arles is the capital of Provence. Join a local guide for a walking tour taking in the Roman ampitheatre which was built to hold 20,000 spectators. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure. An optional tour of Les Baux is available. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Arles - UK
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Marseille airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.